By Guest Blogger Melanie Kramer
I must admit, writing this Blog post was cathartic, liberating and at the same time overcast with a shadow of somberness. The last six years have been a struggle coming to terms with my decision to give up a painting career that I loved dearly, to stay home and raise my children. And as I reflect back today, I can’t help but think, “Was this the best decision for me? For my kids? Why do I feel like I am on the road to nowhere?”
Growing up, I watched my mother obsessively clean the house and do the laundry. I watched her go to the dry cleaners and the grocery store. Her life seemed so consumed with daily housework that even though she was a stay-at-home mom, I felt forgotten. I also felt her sadness and saw her frustration. Did she really choose this life for herself willingly? Ever since I can remember, I promised myself that I would never let myself turn into my mother.
Let me also give you some work history… ever since I was small, I was taught that you go to school, get your degree and get a job. I never knew you could turn the things you love into your life’s work. I took dance lessons and many art classes. I loved being creative, but those were the things I thought were just hobbies. So after going the traditional route, I received my degrees in both Psychology and Social Work and worked with children in schools and hospitals. While I did enjoy it, I knew that this was not my destiny.
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